Heatwaves expose overcrowding crisis in Europe's ageing prisons

As temperatures exceed 37°C, inmates, activists, and prison directors across France, Italy, and Belgium describe a growing crisis of overcrowding and heat stress. Prisons in these countries report occupancy levels of 120%-140%, leading to clashes and heightened stress during heatwaves. Authorities have ordered measures to mitigate the heat, but the underlying issue of ageing facilities and overcrowding remains unresolved.